Sure, staring at your funhouse reflection in Anish Kapoor's shiny Cloud Gate (affectionately known as "the Bean") or sliding down the Picasso in Daley Plaza are pretty much obligatory on a trip to Chicago. But there are plenty of other spots in the area to see public art. Bonus: In most cases, you won't be elbowing your way through tourist throngs to do so.

[

Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park

](http://www.sculpturepark.org/)

More than 60 sculptures line two miles of manicured running and biking paths. The modern, large-scale pieces are made with a range of materials—steel chains, clay, wood, metal—created by local and international artists. Visit May through November to catch one of the free, public tours. McCormick Blvd. between Dempster St. and Touhy Ave., Skokie; 847-679-4265

After you've paid your respects to the Bean, stroll through these nearby outdoor gallery spaces. Currently on display: “Legends, Myths and Truths: Jun Kaneko,” ta emporary exhibit of massive ceramic sculptures by the Japanese artist. You'll see his signature dangos (“dumplings” in Japanese) and Tanuki figures, which are present-day symbols of prosperity; through November 3. _ Boeing Galleries at Millennium Park; 201 E. Randolph St.; 312-744-3316_

Highlights at this 20-acre suburban park include Vinland by Norwegian artist Jarle Rosseland: It channels Stonehenge with 15 rocks arranged in the outline of a Viking ship; open daily, sunrise to sunset. 101 Schaumburg Court, Schaumburg; 847-895-4500

The Chicago installation of artist Candy Chang’s interactive global art project consists of chalkboard walls placed in six neighborhoods throughout the city (including a Spanish-language version in Pilsen, a predominantly Hispanic nieghborhood). Colored chalk is provided for passersby to complete the sentence, “Before I die I want to _____.” The result is an ever-changing composite of the hopes and dreams of these communities. Various locations throughout the city